38Chad Billingsley SP

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Phillies' Sandberg: Chad Billingsley could be 'big boost' to rotation

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

Phillies manager Ryne Sandberg said Wednesday starting pitcher Chad Billingsley, who is coming off June elbow surgery, threw four days ago. However, Sandberg said it's tough to gauge if the veteran right-handed pitcher is behind schedule, per The Journal News.

"He looked very good," Sandberg said. "He can give us a big boost in the starting pitching."

The Phillies have signed pitcher Chad Billingsley, according to MLB.com.

Billingsley is set to make $1.5 million next year. He's eligible to make more based on whether he can reach certain performance bonuses in the contract. Billingsley has pitched just 12 innings in the majors since 2012 due to elbow issues. He had Tommy John surgery in 2013, but experienced more elbow issues while rehabbing after the surgery. He had season-ending surgery to repair a torn flexor tendon in the same elbow, ending his 2014. The Dodgers opted to decline an option on Billingsley, making him a free-agent.

Free agent starting pitcher Chad Billingsley remains a potential option for the Diamondbacks, according to FOXSportsArizona.com. He is expected to be ready for spring training after missing most of last season due to elbow surgery.